Philia

1868 Lawrence Alma-Tadema - Phidias Showing the Frieze of the Parthenon to his Friends (cropped)

Philia (Greek: φιλία) in Ancient Greek philosophy is one of the four ancient Greek words for love. Philia refers to a dispassionate, virtuous love, often translated as "brotherly love." It is a concept that extends beyond the modern notion of friendship to include loyalty to family, community, and country. The term is contrasted with other forms of love, such as Eros (romantic, passionate love), Storge (familial love), and Agape (unconditional, divine love). Philia embodies a mutual, equal partnership and shared goodwill rather than physical or emotional attraction.

Concept and Characteristics

Philia is characterized by a shared sense of purpose or a common goal that unites people. It is the love found in friendships where individuals seek the best for each other and share common values and interests. This form of love is rational, as it is based on the virtues and the goodness of the people involved, rather than on physical attraction or familial ties. In the context of Aristotle's work, particularly in his Nicomachean Ethics, philia is considered an essential component of a happy life. Aristotle divides philia into three types based on the motive for the relationship: friendships of utility, friendships of pleasure, and friendships of the good.

Friendships of Utility

These are relationships formed without regard to the personal qualities of the friends but rather for mutual benefit or convenience. Such friendships are often temporary, as the utility or benefit that brought the individuals together may change or cease to exist.

Friendships of Pleasure

In these friendships, individuals are drawn together by the pleasure they derive from each other's company, often found in shared activities or interests. These relationships can also be fleeting, as people's interests and circumstances can change over time.

Friendships of the Good

These are the most durable and valuable form of philia, according to Aristotle. Friendships of the good are based on mutual respect and admiration for each other's virtues. These friendships require time and familiarity to develop, as they are based on the intrinsic qualities of the persons involved and a shared commitment to the good.

Philia in Society

The concept of philia also extends to the wider community and society. It encompasses the love and loyalty one has for their community or country, promoting social cohesion and a sense of belonging. In this broader sense, philia can be seen as the foundation of civil society, encouraging cooperation, and mutual respect among its members.

Comparison with Other Forms of Love

Philia is distinct from Eros in that it is not driven by passion or desire. Unlike Storge, which often involves an unequal relationship such as that between parent and child, philia is characterized by equality and mutual benefit. Compared to Agape, which is unconditional and selfless, philia involves reciprocity and is conditional upon the virtues of the individuals involved.

Modern Interpretations

In contemporary discussions, the concept of philia has been expanded to include not just friendship, but also a broader range of positive human relationships and interactions. It is often invoked in discussions of social and political philosophy, particularly in the context of building and maintaining cohesive communities and societies.

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